Development of a traceability system for the animal product supply chain based on Blockchain Technology

Agri-food supply-chain have been extensively studied in the last years and many researchers are now considering the application of advanced technologies in supply-chain-management. The technological developments in the areas of networking devices, sensors and communication technology can play a significant role in sustainability of animal product. In particular, the blockchain has drawn considerable attention as a technology with disruptive applications in many different domains. The blockchain consists of a distributed database that maintains a continuously-growing list of data-records, secured from tampering and revision thanks to algorithmic procedures. This paper thereby discusses the possibility to establish a conceptual framework about an animal product supply-chain traceability system based on blockchain technology, in order to enhance food safety and quality as well, and to significantly reduce losses during the logistics-process. This approach covers the whole process of data gathering and information management of every links in animal product supply chain, which realizes the monitoring, tracing and traceability management for quality and safety of the animal product "from farm to fork". Specifically, the study takes into consideration supply-chains with different levels of complexity and analyses strengths, weaknesses, limits and opportunities in the implementation of this new technique. The study also shows possible benefits related to both direct supply chains (one-supplier to one-customer) and multi-entry-exit chain (multiple-suppliers for multiple-customers).